Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis Immunizations
VNA of Southeast Michigan offers on-site immunization clinics for your school, business or community organization. To schedule a clinic:

Tetanus (Lockjaw) is caused by a bacterium that enters the body through cuts, scratches or wounds. This condition causes painful tightening of the muscles, usually all over the body. It can lead to "locking" of the jaw preventing an individual from opening his or her mouth or swallowing. In 20 percent of diagnosed cases, tetanus is fatal.

Diphtheria is caused by a bacterium that enters the body through person to person contact. This condition causes a thick covering in the back of the throat. It can lead to breathing problems, paralysis, heart failure and death.

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) is caused by a bacterium that enters the body through person to person contact. This condition causes severe coughing spells, vomiting and disturbed sleep. It can lead to weight loss, incontinence, rib fractures and loss of consciousness, and pneumonia. Since 2001, pertussis cases have been increasing at an alarming rate in the United States. Estimates show the number of diagnosed cases have increased more than 300 percent over the past few years.


Who should receive the vaccine?
Two vaccines are available for adolescents and adults.

Tdap, licensed in 2005 for ages 11 thru 64 years, is the first vaccine for adolescents and adults that protects against all three diseases. Studies have shown that the childhood immunization for pertussis wanes over time and without a booster will not offer sufficient protection.

Td, licensed for ages 7 and older, is the vaccine that that has been used for many years as booster doses for adolescents and adults. It does not contain pertussis vaccine.